In what way do you want to "beat" the escort"? 0-100kph accleration? Money spent? road-racing lap times?

Let's be honest: A 1200 with a stock A15 accelerates slowly. It feels fast but it's not. If you build up the A15 to the level that the escort engine is built, you should be able to keep up in straight-line acceleration. But if you are talking about top-speed or track times that's a whole 'nother story.